Board honors 'moderating voice of reason'

At its first meeting of the year, the Southwest Public Libraries Board of Trustees bid farewell to one of its longest serving members.

Last Thursday, Jan. 2, the board held its annual organizational meeting at the Grove City Library, 3359 Park St., and celebrated the service of trustee Richard Curtiss, who has resigned after 19 years on the board.

Curtiss is a graduate of Ohio State University and former teacher and guidance counselor with South-Western City Schools.

"It's been a very interesting trip with all the different board members I've interacted with," Curtiss said. "I feel good about retirement because this is the strongest group I've been with."

Curtiss said with plans for the new library underway and other activities, the board needs a "dynamic seventh person."

"I'm not sure I can be that person now," he said.

In addition to a plaque and bag of books from the board, Curtiss received a mayoral proclamation from Grove City Administrator Chuck Boso on behalf Mayor Richard "Ike" Stage for his years of service to the library district.

Library Director Mark Shaw praised Curtiss for his contributions over the years, especially in discussions and debates.

"I always looked at you to be the moderating voice of reason on the board," Shaw said to Curtiss. "It's always been a pleasure to serve with you."

The board is seeking applicants to fill the now vacant seat, with a term that expires Dec. 31, 2015. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and a resident of the South-Western City School District.

Those interested should submit a letter of intent and resume to: Board Member Search, c/o Director Mark Shaw, Southwest Public Libraries, 3359 Park St., Grove City 43123. Applications must be received by Jan. 24, with interviews to be conducted Jan. 28.

In other news from the library trustees meeting:

* Trustee Kay Byard said the board of the trustees' planning commission, working with the Grove City administration, had narrowed the search for an architect for the new Town Center library to three candidates. Interviews were scheduled to begin earlier this week, with the committee and administration expected to make a recommendation by Jan. 14.

Shaw said while the city is technically hiring the architect, the library board will be making the selection.

* The board re-elected Lisa Leasure as its president, Byard as its vice president and Janet Shailer as its secretary for the coming year. In addition, trustee Jill Billman-Royer was sworn in for another term.